It’s been nearly a decade since you introduced yourself as my brother’s girlfriend (long story…).

Nothing was the same ever again.

I knew damn well you weren’t dating him.

That moment you walked out of the coffee shop, strutting all your stuff, there was something else I knew. You were different. You were special. You were perfect. You were trouble in the best way. I just didn’t know how much.

This is my favorite photo of you (thanks, CJ!). Somehow it catches every side of you in one flash – coy, kind, deep, graceful, caring, compassionate, sharp, soft, thoughtful, beautiful. Seeing it drives me mad in the best way (and makes me feel other things I can’t say in public).

There’s no one else I could do this life (or shelter in place) with. Nor anyone I would want to.

Besides, I think anyone else would have murdered me in my sleep. A long time ago.

I wudyuh.